Sun Sep 15 02:25:28 UTC 2024: ## Royal Navy Seizes Record Cocaine Haul in Caribbean, Intercepting First “Narco-Sub”
The Royal Navy has made a historic seizure in the Caribbean Sea, intercepting its first ever “narco-sub” and confiscating £160 million ($208 million) worth of cocaine.
HMS Trent, a Portsmouth-based patrol ship, successfully boarded the semi-submersible vessel, 190 nautical miles south of the Dominican Republic. The operation, conducted in collaboration with the US Coast Guard and a US Maritime Patrol Aircraft, resulted in the seizure of 2,000 kg of cocaine.
This latest success marks the eighth drug bust for HMS Trent in just seven months, bringing the total value of narcotics intercepted to nearly £750 million ($979 million). The ship’s Commanding Officer, Commander Tim Langford, praised the “skilled team” who faced challenging conditions to interdict the “rarely seen” narco-sub.
The operation highlights the Royal Navy’s crucial role in combating Transnational Criminal Organizations and upholding international law. The seizure underscores the increasing importance of maritime security, particularly given the substantial flow of drugs into Europe and the UK, estimated at 117 tonnes annually.
HMS Trent continues its patrol of the Caribbean, providing reassurance to British Overseas Territories during hurricane season and working to stem the flow of illegal cargo.
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